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As the school year approaches, so does your annual school supply shopping trip. While pencils and paper are a necessary part of your child’s educational experience, the cost of supplies can add up quickly.

Don’t get overwhelmed by the growing shopping bill! There are several things you can do right now to make sure your total doesn’t break the bank.

Check out Credit Card Rewards

Did you know you can get a $100 rewards bonus by simply opening a new credit card account with Arvest Bank? Use the credit card on your back to school shopping trip, and earn Arvest Flex Rewards on all purchases.

This opportunity has something for everyone! Check out the options online and find the right credit card to fit your lifestyle.

Plan Ahead

Be on the lookout for online sales or sales tax holidays, which can help you stick to your budget. Often, stores run out of high-demand supplies or brand name clothing as school approaches. Forbes* recommends buying those items early in the summer to avoid last-minute stress.

Some states offer sales tax holidays on school supplies and clothing. Check to see if your state is listed*, and mark your calendar now so you can take advantage of the savings. Use your credit card on the shopping trip and earn rewards points on top of the already great deals!

Be Willing to Wait

In addition to looking for deals ahead of time, Consumer Reports* suggests staggering purchases. Consider buying your child one new outfit when school starts and waiting until October or November to invest in the rest of their wardrobe.

The best deals will be available later in the year, and your child will have time to decide what clothes they really want to buy! Don’t worry, you won’t miss out on your credit card rewards points, but you will miss the back to school frenzy at the mall.

Buy More for Less

It’s no secret that buying in bulk is often the cheaper option and the same is true when it comes to school supplies. If the bulk price seems too high and the item quantity excessive, Money Crashers* suggests coordinating with other parents who are buying the same school supplies. Split the cost and the supplies and everyone wins! Plus, if you volunteer to use your credit card to purchase the supplies, you’ll earn points which can be redeemed for cash back or statement credit at a later date.

Limit Spending on Trends

While cartoon character-themed backpacks and trendy clothing may be tempting, the appeal can quickly fade and result in wasted money. Instead, The Penny Hoarder* suggests buying generic supplies when possible. Encourage your child to be creative and decorate the blank covers of their notebooks and binders!

Specialty items don’t have to be entirely off limits! Money Crashers* recommends limiting your child to two character-themed items and allowing them to choose their favorites. Your child will get the fun school supplies they want and you’ll get rewards points when you use your credit card at check out!

The views of this article are for general information use only. Please contact and speak with a subject expert or your banker when specific advice is needed.

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